Critics may grumble about Pixar Animation Studios’ growing predilection for sequels, but moviegoers seem more than pleased, as “Monsters University” enjoyed a strong start, opening at No. 1 at the box office with an estimated $82 million.

That’s the second highest launch ever for Pixar, which is owned by Walt Disney Co., behind only 2010’s “Toy Story 3.”

Despite mixed reviews, audiences gave the prequel to 2001’s “Monsters Inc.” an average grade of A, according to market research firm CinemaScore. And in the 35 foreign markets where the film also debuted, it took in an additional $54.5 million.

The weekend’s second place film was no slouch either, as the Brad Pitt thriller “World War Z” opened to a solid $66 million. That’s above expectations going into the weekend based on pre-release surveys and good news for Viacom Inc.-owned Paramount Pictures, which ordered up extensive and expensive reshoots last year on the adaptation of the best-selling book.

It also grossed $45.8 million in 25 international markets.

Together with three financial partners, Paramount spent about $200 million to make “World War Z.” The film also got mixed reviews, but its CinemaScore was B+.

After a blockbuster $117 million opening last weekend, ticket sales for “Man of Steel” tumbled 65% to $41.2 million. That’s the highest second weekend drop for a big budget movie this summer and a sign that word-of-mouth on the Superman reboot is not strong.